Rockwall, TX – Rockwall’s American Legion recently hosted an awards luncheon to recognize an outstanding local civilian for her contributions to the veteran community and to officially name the Boys & Girls State Delegates. The American Legion in Rockwall is the oldest nonprofit organization in Rockwall County, founded in 1919 after World War I, and has remained active with more than 200 members. The nonprofit has poured into the community, largely serving as a pass-through organization to get resources directly where they are needed. Each year, they celebrate the incredible achievements of one local civilian and recognize the future leaders who have secured a spot as a state delegate.
This year’s Great American Award was presented to Garland’s Mary Kay Starnes for her dedicated work with Wreaths Across America. The Honorable Lieutenant Colonel Lorna Kipphut elaborated on Starnes’ impressive contributions, stating, “Every year, we give out a Great American Award to a person who is not a veteran but has supported the veteran community. We chose Mary Kay this year because of her significant involvement with Wreaths Across America.” Notably, this was the first year that nearly every veteran laid to rest in Rockwall County received a wreath, with the wreaths spanning three cemeteries and having laid more wreaths in Rockwall County than ever before.
As the daughter of a veteran and a military mother, Starnes’ passion for supporting veterans is evident in her daily life. She expressed her deep respect for those who have served and reflected on her father’s challenging return home after service. Starnes dedicated her recognition to Wreaths Across America and its mission to honor veterans.
The luncheon also celebrated the achievements of the young individuals selected as Boys and Girls State Delegates. Boys State and Girls State are elite programs for rising seniors nationwide, held for one week around the middle of June. Leaders describe the experience as “civics class on steroids,” and the excitement among students was palpable.
Congratulations to Mary Kay Starnes for her well-deserved recognition, and best wishes to the Boys and Girls State Delegates as they embark on this rewarding experience.
